I am happy to report that I have been accepted to the PMP internship program at a major telecommunications company as photographer. I have a lot to learn and a lot to prove, but I am glad to even be accepted where there is only a 3% hiring rate for this program. I will be uploading more photos as soon as they’re ready.

Taking photography at Ryerson University, my final project is based on how comfortable I am taking photographs in public and of people. Most of the photographs posted here are from festivals. How comfortable am I in taking pictures of others? It depends. In a festival situation, there are so many other photographers. It’s easy when so many others are doing the same thing. On two occasions, I’m mistaken for a journalist or media person. I blended in well and got many great photographs. Some of the challenges I faced are massive crowds and accessibility to some of the acts. If I felt uncomfortable, I usually take a picture when a person least expects it. For the most part, if I asked, people said yes. The best part about this project is capturing the excitement and expression of what summer should be.

So I didn’t catch many of the superstars that walked the red carpet. I realized that if I were to do this event again, plan ahead and get a wrist band or media pass. (BTW, I found out to get a media pass for TIFF – Toronto International Film Festival – it starts at $350 for some access to $850 for private screenings, exclusive parties and other events. Next year, I say, when I have the money.) The best part about scoping the scene is finding the best spot to catch the stars aside from the red carpet.

I finally found the sweet spot around the corner where the limos pulled up prior to the red carpet and all the young, screaming fans yelling at the stars to roll down their windows. Bruno Mars did. Disappointed that I came a little too late to this section. I did manage to get a photo of Colin Ferrell.

As I observed later on the difference between media with a pass and paparazzi – media has a special section; paparazzi are outside that. They’re all screaming at the stars to turn around so they can get a good shot. I suppose if I intend on becoming a blog photojournalist – whether through the right channels or as a paparazzi – I should learn to yell and know the names of famous people.

Early morning at Yonge and Dundas Square, Natives begin the festival with a prayer of thanks by an elder. Then, the audience is introduced to traditional music and dance and a Ragalia of costumes as natives of different tribes parade across the stage. This was very captivating and everyone is intrigued. We all can’t take our eyes off. We are even asked to come closer to the stage to get a better look. Some of the highlights is colourfulness of the costumes and the energy of the dances. Young and old participate in this ceremony.

This festival celebrates Caribbean culture and features Island music (Calypso, Soca, Reggae, Hip Hop, Chutney, Steel Pan and Brass Bands), food and many women clad in nothing more than feathers, bikinis and plenty of glitter. There are men, of course, but they’re a little more dressed up (thankfully!) This event attracts millions of people every year to watch and take photos of the revelry. This is my second time watching the parade. I decided that I wasn’t going to get second best photos and went right into the parade route instead of being a bystander on the side. This event will be forever referred to as Caribana.

This event celebrates music and features old and new acts. The night I attended, I have no idea who was playing on the Friday evening but they were phenomenal. I’m not really into punk rock but I can appreciate live music. My challenge – accessibility to stage and dealing with large crowds. I later saw many people leave a secured area in front of the stage with their cameras. How did they get access? It’s also my first time witnessing body surfing. (I don’t get out much and it’s not normally my scene.) At first, I had no idea what security were doing. Then I realized they’re catching and pulling people out of the crowds.

Mississauga’s Waterfront Festival celebrates summer with music, rides, games and entertainment. It is held in the beautiful Port Credit area. Mostly catering to families with small children, I have honestly never attended this festival. To be fair, I haven’t attended many events like NXNE either prior to this assignment. This said, it has opened my eyes to what could be out there. I didn’t stay long at the waterfront festival. I was about ready to leave when I saw the most exciting thing for children (and adults who wanted to jump in given the opportunity.)